Silfra Drysuit Snorkeling With Free Photos – Meet on Location

Imagine floating effortlessly through the crystal-clear waters of Thingvellir National Park. That’s the promise of Silfra drysuit snorkeling, a breathtaking adventure that allows you to explore the unique underwater landscapes of this geological wonder. Led by PADI-certified guides, this small-group tour provides all the necessary equipment, free underwater photos, and hot chocolate to warm you up afterward. With a meeting point right on location, it’s an easy way to experience one of Iceland’s most stunning natural attractions.

Key Points

• This snorkeling tour provides participants a chance to explore the crystal-clear glacial waters of Silfra in Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• The tour is led by a PADI-certified instructor and limited to a maximum of 6 participants, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.
• Participants are provided with all necessary equipment, including dry suits, wetsuits, and underwater photos, as well as hot chocolate to warm up after the activity.
• The tour location requires participants to arrive 15 minutes early at the Silfra Adventure Vikings meeting point in Thingvellir, with parking available at the "Thingvellir P5" lot.
• Participants must meet specific age, height, and weight requirements, and fill out a medical form to confirm the absence of any serious medical conditions.

Tour Overview and Highlights

Snorkeling between the tectonic plates at Silfra in Iceland’s Thingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers visitors a unique and breathtaking experience.

The small-group tour, led by a PADI-certified instructor, allows up to 6 participants to explore the crystal-clear glacial waters. Dry suits and wetsuits are provided, eliminating the need for certification.

The tour includes underwater photos, hot chocolate, and all necessary equipment. Lasting approximately 2.5-3 hours, with 35-40 minutes spent in the water, this immersive adventure showcases the stunning natural landscapes of this geological wonder.

Meeting and Safety Considerations

Travelers must arrive 15 minutes early at the meeting point, Silfra Adventure Vikings in Thingvellir, Iceland, and park at the "Thingvellir P5" lot. This snorkeling tour is not recommended for pregnant women, those with heart problems, serious medical conditions, or claustrophobia. Participants must meet the following requirements:

Swimmers must be able to communicate in English and complete a medical form. Prescription masks or contact lenses are advised, as glasses are not recommended.

Participant Requirements

To participate in the Silfra drysuit snorkeling tour, individuals must meet specific requirements. This includes:

1. Being between the ages of 12 and 65 years old.
2. Meeting a height range of 150-200 cm (4’9" to 6’7") and a weight range of 50-120 kg (99-264 lbs).
3. Being able to swim and communicate in English.
4. Filling out a medical form to ensure they’ve no serious medical conditions that could be exacerbated by the activity.

Participants should also avoid wearing glasses and instead opt for contact lenses or a prescription mask.

Proper attire, such as thermal underwear and thick socks, is also essential for staying comfortable in the dry suit.

Recommended Attire and Equipment

Proper attire and equipment are essential for a comfortable and enjoyable Silfra drysuit snorkeling experience. The tour provider recommends wearing long thermal underwear and thick wool socks under the dry suit. Avoid wearing glasses and bring contact lenses or a prescription mask instead. Plus, participants should bring a change of clothes in case of any dry suit leaks. Dress according to the weather, avoiding heels or jeans. Participants may feel some tightness in the dry suit, especially around the neck and wrists.

Preparing for the Drysuit Snorkeling Experience

The Silfra drysuit snorkeling adventure requires some pre-trip preparation.

First, dress in long thermal underwear and thick wool socks to wear under the provided drysuit. Avoid wearing glasses and opt for contact lenses or a prescription mask instead. Bring a change of clothes in case of any drysuit leaks.

Plus, dress appropriately for the weather, steering clear of heels or jeans. Participants may feel a bit tightness in the drysuit, especially around the neck and wrists, but this is normal.

With these tips in mind, adventurers will be ready to explore the stunning underwater landscapes of Silfra.

Customer Feedback and Experiences

Travelers offer a mixed bag of reviews for the Silfra drysuit snorkeling experience.

While many praise the stunning underwater landscapes and knowledgeable guides, some report issues with organization and equipment.

Positive comments highlight the clarity of the water, thorough safety measures, and included photos.

However, some feel rushed due to tight schedules.

Common complaints include tightness in the drysuits, especially around the neck and wrists.

Cancellation and Booking Details

For those interested in booking the Silfra drysuit snorkeling tour, it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

The tour is priced from $152.00 per person, allowing for flexibility with the "reserve now, pay later" option.

When booking, ensure all participant details are provided to receive confirmation.

The tour offers several appealing features:

1. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
2. Pricing from $152.00 per person.
3. "Reserve now, pay later" for flexibility.
4. Confirmation received at booking.

Exploring the Thingvellir National Park Underwater Landscapes

What makes the underwater landscapes of Thingvellir National Park so captivating?

The park sits on the boundary between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates, resulting in a dramatic, other-worldly underwater scenery.

Snorkelers glide through the crystal-clear, turquoise waters of the Silfra fissure, surrounded by towering rock walls.

Shafts of light pierce the depths, illuminating the smooth, volcanic rock formations.

Visibility can reach up to 100 meters, allowing for an immersive, awe-inspiring experience.

Snorkelers drift silently, surrounded by the alien beauty and tranquility of this UNESCO World Heritage site‘s underwater realm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Add Extra Participants to My Booking?

Yes, you can add extra participants to your booking, but this is subject to availability and may incur additional costs. Contact the tour operator as soon as possible to check if there are any open spots remaining.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Silfra?

The best time to visit Silfra is during the summer months, typically June through August, when the water temperature is warmest and daylight hours are longest. However, the site can be enjoyed year-round with proper equipment and preparation.

Are Gopros or Other Cameras Allowed During the Snorkel?

Yes, GoPros and other cameras are allowed during the Silfra snorkel tour. The tour includes underwater photos, but participants can also bring their own cameras to capture the unique experience of snorkeling between the tectonic plates.

Can I Store My Belongings at the Meeting Point?

Yes, travelers can store their belongings at the meeting point, Silfra Adventure Vikings. The tour operator provides secure storage options so participants can safely keep their personal items while they’re out snorkeling between the tectonic plates.

Will There Be Opportunities to See Wildlife During the Snorkel?

While the tour focuses on the geological features of the Silfra fissure, it’s possible to spot some aquatic wildlife like fish and invertebrates during the snorkel. However, wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed and aren’t the primary focus of this experience.

The Sum Up

The Silfra Drysuit Snorkeling tour offers a truly remarkable opportunity to explore the crystal-clear glacial waters of Thingvellir National Park. With PADI-certified instructors, free underwater photos, and hot chocolate to warm you up, this unforgettable adventure is not to be missed. Arrive 15 minutes early, and prepare for an awe-inspiring journey through one of the world’s most stunning snorkeling locations.